BKSDA: Sumatran Orangutan Gives Birth in Jantho Nature Reserve, Aceh

The Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has announced that an individual Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii) has given birth in the Jantho Nature Reserve reintroduction centre, located in Aceh Besar Regency.

Speaking in Banda Aceh on Friday, the Head of BKSDA Aceh, Ujang Wisnu Barata, stated that the Sumatran orangutan infant was born to a mother named Bulan. Bulan is a rehabilitated orangutan who has been living freely in the wild since 2018.

“Since a month ago, Bulan has been observed moving actively within the forest canopy while carrying her infant. During observations, Bulan appeared active and exhibited protective behaviour,” said Ujang Wisnu Barata. He noted that the infant, a male, remains closely clung to its mother, is estimated to be approximately one month old, and appears to be in healthy condition.

“This orangutan birth proves that consistent habitat protection allows us to restore the populations of endangered endemic species. It brings a glimmer of new hope for the sustainability of the forest ecosystem,” added Ultang Wisnu Barata.

The Head of BKSDA Aceh further mentioned that Bulan was originally rescued from the illegal wildlife trade in Kutacane, Southeast Aceh Regency, in 2014, when she was approximately two years old. Following four years of rehabilitation at the YEL-SOCP Orangutan Quarantine and Rehabilitation Centre in Sibolangit, North Sumatra, Bulan was released into the Orangutan Reintroduction Centre in the Jantho Nature Reserve in 2018.

This event, he noted, serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining natural orangutan habitats and strengthening wildlife protection to ensure such conservation successes can continue. According to Barata, successful reproduction in the wild is a vital indicator that rehabilitated orangutans are capable of adapting, surviving, and breeding in their natural habitats.

“This birth proves how orangutans that were previously victims of the wildlife trade can be given the opportunity to live and breed in the wild. Such success can only continue if their habitat remains protected,” said Ujang Wisnu Barata. The Sumatran orangutan is a protected species; according to global conservation lists, this species, found only on Sumatra Island, is classified as critically endangered, facing a high risk of extinction in the wild.